HomeBay Laurel › Grow in New Mexico

Can You Grow Bay Laurel in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grow indoors

Grow in a large pot and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

Plant zones

8a–10b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in New Mexico

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

Aug 27 – Feb 28

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Bay Laurel

Bay laurel is the source of the bay leaf in every spice rack — a slow-growing Mediterranean shrub that can be kept compact in a container. The fresh leaves are far more aromatic than dried store-bought.

Buy a young plant rather than starting from seed (germination is extremely slow and unreliable). Grow in a large container so it can be moved indoors in cold climates. Very slow growing — harvest lightly the first year. Allow leaves to dry on the branch for best flavour.

Full bay laurel growing guide →

Gardening in New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in New Mexico?

Grow in a large pot and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in New Mexico?

Plant Bay Laurels Feb 28, harvest Aug 27 – Feb 28.